F8 Performante to F8?

IPO1 · May 31, 2019

dmark1 said: ↑

I know, I went and ate Mexican food a block away last night and thought I would just drop by and look at it through the window since the dealer was closed (safer that way I thought). Wouldn’t you know, it was front and center and when I saw it through the window my wallet began to shudder.
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As long as wife is happy But honestly you won't have anything until Pista in Dec--right move. My gawd I know you're going to love that engine noise.

Good man...HP PD will be looking out for you HAHA!

SoCal to az · May 31, 2019

Smart move Mark! I almost pulled the trigger on a 3rs today. Probably best I walked away

Gh21631 · Jun 1, 2019

If anyone is interested I may be selling my 19' GT3 manual

dustman · Jun 1, 2019

Congrats. I drove my Perf S twice today as I just couldn’t get enough of that sound.

I let a couple of nice kids sit in the car while I lectured them about studying and working hard in life

Surfah · Jun 1, 2019

dmark1 said: ↑

After initially backing away from the Performante Spyder ordered I relented and picked it up today before someone else grabbed it from Lambo Dallas.

Blue Nethuns with Giallo “Submarine” interior.

Crappy pic of interior, more to follow.

Incredible sound was just impossible to walk away from, so I let my wallet walk away from me anyway.
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Wise choice. Nothing like the drama of a Lambo.

plastique999 · Jun 2, 2019

Coincid said: ↑

After owning my Performante ( 2018,19) for almost a year, my romance continues unabated. However, as a confirmed car junkie, my curiosity was piqued once again to visit my Ferrari dealer to revisit the 488. I do have a keen interest in the F8 but since it will not be available for viewing let alone driving anytime soon I decided to experience the 488 to determine how it compares to the Performante. The logic being, if the 488 can satisfy me, the F8, which is faster and a vastly improved update, would be worth ordering. My assessment is predicated on analyzing the objective characteristics and capabilities of these cars coupled with highly subjective impressions that further distinguishes and differentiates them. As a generalization , the current generation of super cars are so capable and so technically adept in virtually all parameters of performance both on roads and on the track so that they possess more similarities than differences. The following observations will clearly not be shared by many and they are proferred simply as a personal journey focussing on 3 cars that are currently available at similiar price points. I am not a brand loyalist. I have and will in the future, purchase the car that I deem most satisfying from whichever brand happens to manufacture it. My bias is driving the car that most fulfills my priorities and preferences. I have no dogs in the race .

The 488 was driven in the sport and race settings and only in manual mode. The suspension, fortunately, unlike the Performante, can be independently adjusted adjusted in each setting. I went from medium to firm. The test drive encompassed highway, city streets and quiet , winding roads in an industrial area. The high speeds ( blatantly unlawful) and divergent road terrains allowed for a fairly comprehensive evaluation of the individual car's capabilities and personality. Immediately apparent was the tightness and rigidity of the chassis and suspension.While the 488 has an aluminum cockpit, it exhibited the lack of flex inherent to one constructed of carbon fibre. The ride characteristic was very smooth, and refined coupled with the suspension being firm and mildly compliant creating an oversall feel of comfort and precision. Steering offered a good sense of driver feedback as well as being direct perhaps a slight err on the side of being a tad light.Turbo lag has been minimized to a level that makes it barely noticeable in the 2-3K range unlike the 720S which is slightly more intrusive in this area, Otherwise, acceleration was instantaneous and very responsive but not quite as linear as the NA-V10. Make no mistake, the 488 is very fast. A nudge on the throttle propels the car from 40 mph - 100 mph in what seems like a blink of an eye. However, not as blistering as the 720S which is the trail blazer in this domain. The DCT is razor sharp with seamless gear transition at least the equal of the 720S and Performante. Equally impressive is the tenacious grip and precision handling abilities of this RWD car, only matched by the 720S. There is no wheel spin upon launch which is evident , for example, with the 580-2. The 488 (and 720S) exhibit a glued to the road persona that heretofore was the exclusive domain of AWD yet without their tendency to understeer. The exhaust note has been an issue of controversy. Some claim that with the introduction of forced air induction, the 488's sound is lacking gravitas compared to the previous NA models, while others are quite content with the noise. It certainly does not approach the mellifluous sound of the Performante but it is noticeably superior to the 720S.

The 488, overall is a stellar performer and in many parameters of performance equals competitors and carves out new ground in some. It is extremely well built and exudes that sensation as it is driven. While the interior is finished in mainly superb materials ( with the exception of the climate control panel which is fashioned with cheap looking plastic) combined with excellent workmanship, there exists an old school aura about the cockpit. While the Performante is much more modern and super car like in appearance, it too uses some cheap looking plastic elements. The 488 is extremely well balanced. Its strenghs are many and varied and its objective flaws minimal.

But on a personal, subjective level, where priorities and preferences weigh heavy in the areas of heightened driver engagement, a real sense of driver- car connection and feedback, with highly compelling driver dynamics, the 488 does not meet the threshold exhibited by the Performante. The 488 is highly refined, civilized and controlled ( much like the 720S) which will undoubtedly appeal to many. For those who value those attributes in a super car, the 488 and the 720S, will comport with those preferences to a degree unmatched by any other super cars. The 488, ( and 720S) despite all its quantifiable excellences and there are many, did not cause my heart to pound nor was there a sense of awe and excitement approaching that engendered while driving the Performante. From its sonorous , authoritative engine note, to the raw energy and exhilirating driving dynamics, the Perf constantly reminded me how special driving the car feels, whether it was a civilized drive at moderate speeds or pushing its limits on isolated roads. The car engulfs the senses and resonants to one's core. For the very reason, many car enthusiasts still prefer the 458 Speciale or the 430 Scud, whle cognizant that their objective driving capabilities are not up to the standards of the 488, or 720S, remain inspired by the thrill and excitement inherent in driving them. The Performante addresses all my priorities and preferences more fully than any competitor. It is the synthesis of objective excellence and emotional excitement.To satisfy my super car predilections, the F8 will need to up its game over the 488 more than just a bit.
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Interesting, I know you and I have been on slightly opposite sides of opinions on Perf vs. 458S/488. This is what makes forums fun.
Good write up but would like to know more objective details on why you like the Perf. I’m sure F8/488 have better “technology” vs Speciale but....
Here are some of my objective comparisons on Speciale vs Perf:
1. Design: Perf wins in design - it has way more presence and angularity in its aesthetics. Interior wins as well as it feels like a jet fighter cockpit. If you want a neckbreaker, own a Lambo.
2. Handling: Ferrari has the lighter more direct feel in its steering. In my Speciale, steering feels very 1:1, no understeer or oversteer. Raw.
Perf feels electrical to me, a bit unconnected as if the computer nannies are doing some work to “help” the driver position the car. Superb technology, less feel.
3. Transmission: Yes Perf, 720, modern car, Tesla, etc have “seamless” gearshifts. Feels like you are flying. I do Not like this. I want to feel the shifts.
Speciale has DCT with noticeable gearshifts. This is awesome. Superfast II SCT 60ms shifts in Scud - best bang feel in the world to me. I like it raw.
4. Sound: Perf is extremely loud and rambunctious, V10 grumble and growl is intoxicating. Love it. Just different.
Speciale (with IPE setup) is Formula 1 sound. Period.
This is purely subjective if you prefer brute power sound vs refined high pitched F1 sound. Both are great. Tie.

Sent from my 16M

dustman · Jun 2, 2019

I like the Perf S much more than the Speciale.

Sound, confidence inspiring, grip, tech, reliability, speed.

Speciale looks good, is a ferrari, is more nimble and playful.

SoCal to az · Jun 2, 2019

Gh21631 said: ↑

If anyone is interested I may be selling my 19' GT3 manual
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What are the specs?? I want to get one-

italiafan · Jun 2, 2019

Coincid said: ↑

After owning my Performante ( 2018,19) for almost a year, my romance continues unabated. However, as a confirmed car junkie, my curiosity was piqued once again to visit my Ferrari dealer to revisit the 488. I do have a keen interest in the F8 but since it will not be available for viewing let alone driving anytime soon I decided to experience the 488 to determine how it compares to the Performante. The logic being, if the 488 can satisfy me, the F8, which is faster and a vastly improved update, would be worth ordering. My assessment is predicated on analyzing the objective characteristics and capabilities of these cars coupled with highly subjective impressions that further distinguishes and differentiates them. As a generalization , the current generation of super cars are so capable and so technically adept in virtually all parameters of performance both on roads and on the track so that they possess more similarities than differences. The following observations will clearly not be shared by many and they are proferred simply as a personal journey focussing on 3 cars that are currently available at similiar price points. I am not a brand loyalist. I have and will in the future, purchase the car that I deem most satisfying from whichever brand happens to manufacture it. My bias is driving the car that most fulfills my priorities and preferences. I have no dogs in the race .

The 488 was driven in the sport and race settings and only in manual mode. The suspension, fortunately, unlike the Performante, can be independently adjusted adjusted in each setting. I went from medium to firm. The test drive encompassed highway, city streets and quiet , winding roads in an industrial area. The high speeds ( blatantly unlawful) and divergent road terrains allowed for a fairly comprehensive evaluation of the individual car's capabilities and personality. Immediately apparent was the tightness and rigidity of the chassis and suspension.While the 488 has an aluminum cockpit, it exhibited the lack of flex inherent to one constructed of carbon fibre. The ride characteristic was very smooth, and refined coupled with the suspension being firm and mildly compliant creating an oversall feel of comfort and precision. Steering offered a good sense of driver feedback as well as being direct perhaps a slight err on the side of being a tad light.Turbo lag has been minimized to a level that makes it barely noticeable in the 2-3K range unlike the 720S which is slightly more intrusive in this area, Otherwise, acceleration was instantaneous and very responsive but not quite as linear as the NA-V10. Make no mistake, the 488 is very fast. A nudge on the throttle propels the car from 40 mph - 100 mph in what seems like a blink of an eye. However, not as blistering as the 720S which is the trail blazer in this domain. The DCT is razor sharp with seamless gear transition at least the equal of the 720S and Performante. Equally impressive is the tenacious grip and precision handling abilities of this RWD car, only matched by the 720S. There is no wheel spin upon launch which is evident , for example, with the 580-2. The 488 (and 720S) exhibit a glued to the road persona that heretofore was the exclusive domain of AWD yet without their tendency to understeer. The exhaust note has been an issue of controversy. Some claim that with the introduction of forced air induction, the 488's sound is lacking gravitas compared to the previous NA models, while others are quite content with the noise. It certainly does not approach the mellifluous sound of the Performante but it is noticeably superior to the 720S.

The 488, overall is a stellar performer and in many parameters of performance equals competitors and carves out new ground in some. It is extremely well built and exudes that sensation as it is driven. While the interior is finished in mainly superb materials ( with the exception of the climate control panel which is fashioned with cheap looking plastic) combined with excellent workmanship, there exists an old school aura about the cockpit. While the Performante is much more modern and super car like in appearance, it too uses some cheap looking plastic elements. The 488 is extremely well balanced. Its strenghs are many and varied and its objective flaws minimal.

But on a personal, subjective level, where priorities and preferences weigh heavy in the areas of heightened driver engagement, a real sense of driver- car connection and feedback, with highly compelling driver dynamics, the 488 does not meet the threshold exhibited by the Performante. The 488 is highly refined, civilized and controlled ( much like the 720S) which will undoubtedly appeal to many. For those who value those attributes in a super car, the 488 and the 720S, will comport with those preferences to a degree unmatched by any other super cars. The 488, ( and 720S) despite all its quantifiable excellences and there are many, did not cause my heart to pound nor was there a sense of awe and excitement approaching that engendered while driving the Performante. From its sonorous , authoritative engine note, to the raw energy and exhilirating driving dynamics, the Perf constantly reminded me how special driving the car feels, whether it was a civilized drive at moderate speeds or pushing its limits on isolated roads. The car engulfs the senses and resonants to one's core. For the very reason, many car enthusiasts still prefer the 458 Speciale or the 430 Scud, whle cognizant that their objective driving capabilities are not up to the standards of the 488, or 720S, remain inspired by the thrill and excitement inherent in driving them. The Performante addresses all my priorities and preferences more fully than any competitor. It is the synthesis of objective excellence and emotional excitement.To satisfy my super car predilections, the F8 will need to up its game over the 488 more than just a bit.
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You write beautifully, were you an English Lit major at Williams, or McGill?
Great synopsis of your thoughts, you have captured beautifully so many complicated nuances in our love for these unique automobiles.
I own five amazing cars, and each incites a different emotional response it is so hard to answer which evokes more joy.
Thanks.

italiafan · Jun 2, 2019

Big A said: ↑

Thank you Sir. Different cars do things for different people. Not everyone is looking for the same experience.
Wouldn’t it be boring if everyone liked and bought the exact same car? These cars are very much about what stirs your emotions. And that thing might be found in a 488 for one person 458 for the other.
I once had a 1988 twin cam flat back Toyota Corolla and that was a great little car to drive. Still look back at that car with fond memories.
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In college I thrashed my ‘72 baby blue VW beetle daily, all ~50hp or so, so much fun, what a great little ride.

Gh21631 · Jun 2, 2019

Image Unavailable, Please Login

SoCal to az said: ↑

What are the specs?? I want to get one-
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PM me your email and I'll send you the details.

SoCal to az · Jun 2, 2019

Gh21631 said: ↑

View attachment 2713903

PM me your email and I'll send you the details.
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Beautiful! But I can’t do red. Long story- wife hates red.

Coincid · Jun 3, 2019

italiafan said: ↑

You write beautifully, were you an English Lit major at Williams, or McGill?
Great synopsis of your thoughts, you have captured beautifully so many complicated nuances in our love for these unique automobiles.
I own five amazing cars, and each incites a different emotional response it is so hard to answer which evokes more joy.
Thanks.
Click to expand...

Thanks so much for the kind words. Greatly appreciated.My education involved a Masters in Science and ultimately a Doctorate of Law.

At their shared exalted level of performance and aesthetics, the current crop of super cars are distinguished by their individual personalities. Preferences are thereby highly subjective. I personally endeavour to impartially enumerate their objective strengths and weaknesses and then ultimately inject my subjective bias as to which cars engender the most thrilling and compelling driving dynamics and exciting ownership experience.

Coincid · Jun 3, 2019

plastique999 said: ↑

Interesting, I know you and I have been on slightly opposite sides of opinions on Perf vs. 458S/488. This is what makes forums fun.
Good write up but would like to know more objective details on why you like the Perf. I’m sure F8/488 have better “technology” vs Speciale but....
Here are some of my objective comparisons on Speciale vs Perf:
1. Design: Perf wins in design - it has way more presence and angularity in its aesthetics. Interior wins as well as it feels like a jet fighter cockpit. If you want a neckbreaker, own a Lambo.
2. Handling: Ferrari has the lighter more direct feel in its steering. In my Speciale, steering feels very 1:1, no understeer or oversteer. Raw.
Perf feels electrical to me, a bit unconnected as if the computer nannies are doing some work to “help” the driver position the car. Superb technology, less feel.
3. Transmission: Yes Perf, 720, modern car, Tesla, etc have “seamless” gearshifts. Feels like you are flying. I do Not like this. I want to feel the shifts.
Speciale has DCT with noticeable gearshifts. This is awesome. Superfast II SCT 60ms shifts in Scud - best bang feel in the world to me. I like it raw.
4. Sound: Perf is extremely loud and rambunctious, V10 grumble and growl is intoxicating. Love it. Just different.
Speciale (with IPE setup) is Formula 1 sound. Period.
This is purely subjective if you prefer brute power sound vs refined high pitched F1 sound. Both are great. Tie.

I believe our subjective preferences are much more aligned than not. We both seek ownership of cars that makes driving an engaging adventure. Where the driver and the machine unite in the mission to elevate adrenaline and make the heart pound. Cars that require a certain level of driver expertise and experience in maximizing their performance capabilities. The joy is in the journey and how alive it makes you feel and has less to do about how fast the destination is reached.

I have never driven the Speciale so obviously I cannot compare it to the Performante. I am so enamoured by the Perf due to how adept it is at striking a near ideal balance between objective excellence combined with subjective excitement. The compelling cars of the past- 993Turbo manual, 430 Scud, Lamborghini Balboni, for example, certainly evoked the senses, but were noticeably flawed in most quantifiable performance metrics. In other words, a balance skewed toward the right brain. The 458 was the last car to offer a blend of the objective and subjective driving dynamics of which I could live. The new trend towards refinement, creature comforts blended with objective superiority spawned the 488, 720S and the 610-4. This evolution created cars of stellar capabilities but in the process vanquished soul and the visceral connection to the car. The sterile reaction I had for all of them left me craving for more and lusting for passion. All these desires came to fruition when I got behind the wheel of the Performante. It was an awakening of my soul and senses. The rumble and roar of the engine. The intimate connection to the suspension. So firm and taut. Road surfaces were easily discernable without that overly compliant artificial censoring. None of this compliant, soft and refined S class feeling. I was in a super car that felt like one. The steering did not feel digital or lacking feedback. At high speeds, it was direct and tight and every movement of that wheel pointed the car in the direction I directed it to go. That NA V10 awakes the senses and accelerates with total lineaity at all rpms unlike the lull with the subsequent Turbo surge characteristic of the new breed. The grip and cornering traits were not only precise and predictable but inspired confidence in being able to tame the beast at ferocious speeds. While the Performante is no slouch from launch to 60 mph( been timed at 2.3 seconds by Road and Track), the visceral demeanor of the car creates the sensation of greater speed. The 720S , for example, possesses blistering speed. But it is so refined and competent, that the rush is subjectively ameliorated.

With regard to the DCT, we are in agreement that all new super cars have razor quick, seamless gear transitions. What differentiates the Perf is in the dowshifting. The engine roar and popping is exceptionally invigorating and exciting.

Many claim that unless these super cars are driven on a track or in areas where their abilities can be exploited, they will all exhibit driving dynamics that are indisguishable. For the new trend cars that is an accurate assessment. But not for the cars that illicit excitement. And this is the case for the Performante. Driving it on city streets or country roads will still feel special. Its thrilling disposition will still be evident.

I am not critical or disparaging of those who genuinely admire and enjoy the new breed.There are exceptional machines and for those who value their intrinsic nature, I have no qualms. I simply have different priorities and preferences. For me, at this point in time, the Performante fulfills my requirements more fully than any other.

Sent from my 16M
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dmark1 · Jun 3, 2019

Damn I wish I could write like that ...

Gh21631 · Jun 3, 2019

SoCal to az said: ↑

Beautiful! But I can’t do red. Long story- wife hates red.
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Oh I get it, I wasn't into reds either until my 720 and then I said what the heck on the GT3. This is a beauty though.

SoCal to az · Jun 3, 2019

Gh21631 said: ↑

Oh I get it, I wasn't into reds either until my 720 and then I said what the heck on the GT3. This is a beauty though.
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Totally get it. Long story but sold my touring cause it was red. Wife issues. Like I said long story.

Gh21631 · Jun 3, 2019

Coincid said: ↑

Thanks so much for the kind words. Greatly appreciated.My education involved a Masters in Science and ultimately a Doctorate of Law.

At their shared exalted level of performance and aesthetics, the current crop of super cars are distinguished by their individual personalities. Preferences are thereby highly subjective. I personally endeavour to impartially enumerate their objective strengths and weaknesses and then ultimately inject my subjective bias as to which cars engender the most thrilling and compelling driving dynamics and exciting ownership experience.
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And here you are with us dummys. I reread my posts and see all kinds of grammatical errors. I need to pay more attention. Perhaps I dont care enough.

Coincid · Jun 4, 2019

Gh21631 said: ↑

Oh I get it, I wasn't into reds either until my 720 and then I said what the heck on the GT3. This is a beauty though.
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I had a manual red 997 C2S cab. Looked great.

737Drvr · Jun 12, 2019

So, an update as to where I'm at after some time to reflect. None of the comments about particular cars are personal just my thoughts...Pardon the long post but here goes.

I had a good friend let me drive his 488. A different driving experience than a Performante for sure. Not in a bad way at all, just different. I liked it. Lots of power, no noticeable turbo lag (as has been said), and actually fun. The car would chirp or slightly spin the rear tires on 1-2 and 2-3 shifts while maintaining a straight driving line in Race mode. Impressive. To me, the steering was greatly improved from the 430 I drove. More weighted and direct. Progress as they say. The 488 is very comfortable car as well. You could daily drive this one. Easy ingress/egress, nice ride, quieter at cruising speeds. The Performante doesn't do all these as well and is more raw. I love both for being what they are. Since I have a track focused car in the 600LT, I actually wouldn't mind changing out the Perf to a F8. So, I made a comparo list of both cars. Here's what I came up with.

Powertrain: this is one of the major reasons I'm considering a F8. The V10 in the Perf is glorious. N/A goodness to us all that love the response and noises such an engine makes. It's a solid, bulletproof unit but is reaching 10 years of age. The F8's engine is plucked straight out of the Pista if I understand correctly. Race derived internals and another engine of the year award. From those that have driven the Pista, I've been told it's a fair bit faster than the 488, shifts better, etc. Again, progress. I've driven a 720S. They are crazy fast. I think the F8 will be close in what I view as a more alluring package. That tells me that Ferrari has picked up the baton and wants to compete head on with McLaren...a good thing. Lamborghini is trying to compete but is behind in the powertrain department. The Evo received the Performante's engine which is 80HP short of both Ferrari and McLaren. To be fair, Lambo is working on something but is under the veil of VAG and somewhat constrained. They are also against turbocharging and evolve a bit slower than their competitors. Powertrain = advatange F8.

Exterior: looks are always subjective and each car has its own beauty. Front End. A virtual tie. The Perf is so aggressive looking. It screams move out of my way. The Ferrari is less angular but has sensuous lines. And that S duct, a win. A tie here. The side view is a also a virtual tie. The front fenders to the back of the door look great on both. I do like the coke bottle effect on the lower side kick panels of the F8. Nice design touch. The rear fender on the Lambo is gorgeous. I love the view of it from the side mirror. The girl has nice hips. You can see the fender bulging out to cover the rear wheel, while the F8's is a bit more flat. The engine intake on the F8 is a nice sight in the side mirror though. A tie here with maybe a slight edge to Lambo. Onto the back end. Both are great! But I give the advantage to Ferrari. It's a fresh design and I like the clean look to it and the quad tail lights paying homage to the 308. The engine compartment. Both marques are very good at engine jewelry. This is where McLaren loses points against the Italians...I digress. Again, I give a slight advantage to the F8 here. The lexan is a nice touch and its a bit better presentation. Lambo is right there. The Perf has a nice looking engine bay but I prefer regular carbon fiber to the type used in the Performante's engine bay.

Interior: both are great in their own way. The Performante is like a fighter cockpit. Nice Alcantara and diamond cut patterns. The switch gear (window switches, lifter, etc.) feels a bit cheap for an otherwise very beautiful interior. The display is also fantastic. I have the comfort sets in mine which I would highly recommend to anyone looking into a Performante. They are suitable for both the track and daily driving and are powered/heated. The F8's interior is just completely different. I appreciate it for what it is. Beautiful Italian leather and a comfortable place to take a long drive. I like the simplicity of the center bridge layout and the switch gear seems of better quality. As I get older, I've come to like getting in and out of a car easier. A virtual tie again...

This all leaves me with a question of where to go. I love my Performante. It's a great car! Zero problems and a fun driving experience. But maybe it's time for something different. I've had 5 Lambos and love the brand. With that said, Ferrari has been on my radar and this is a unique opportunity to order one to my specs. I've never owned a Ferrari. There's no denying the brand has a rich history and a mystique to it. I'm going to give it a try if I can come to terms with my local dealer on price, etc. I always appreciate any advice you owners have and look forward to sharing our experiences. Thanks for reading, you made to the end...

Ash Patel · Jun 12, 2019

very nice write up, thanks for sharing your thoughts and comparison

dustman · Jun 12, 2019

Nice write up, and you will enjoy the Ferrari!
I went the other way and found the Perf to be my breath of fresh air but will try the Pista and see if I can live with that 488 derived experience. But I am inclined to keep the Perf.

Coincid · Jun 13, 2019

737Drvr said: ↑

So, an update as to where I'm at after some time to reflect. None of the comments about particular cars are personal just my thoughts...Pardon the long post but here goes.

I had a good friend let me drive his 488. A different driving experience than a Performante for sure. Not in a bad way at all, just different. I liked it. Lots of power, no noticeable turbo lag (as has been said), and actually fun. The car would chirp or slightly spin the rear tires on 1-2 and 2-3 shifts while maintaining a straight driving line in Race mode. Impressive. To me, the steering was greatly improved from the 430 I drove. More weighted and direct. Progress as they say. The 488 is very comfortable car as well. You could daily drive this one. Easy ingress/egress, nice ride, quieter at cruising speeds. The Performante doesn't do all these as well and is more raw. I love both for being what they are. Since I have a track focused car in the 600LT, I actually wouldn't mind changing out the Perf to a F8. So, I made a comparo list of both cars. Here's what I came up with.

Powertrain: this is one of the major reasons I'm considering a F8. The V10 in the Perf is glorious. N/A goodness to us all that love the response and noises such an engine makes. It's a solid, bulletproof unit but is reaching 10 years of age. The F8's engine is plucked straight out of the Pista if I understand correctly. Race derived internals and another engine of the year award. From those that have driven the Pista, I've been told it's a fair bit faster than the 488, shifts better, etc. Again, progress. I've driven a 720S. They are crazy fast. I think the F8 will be close in what I view as a more alluring package. That tells me that Ferrari has picked up the baton and wants to compete head on with McLaren...a good thing. Lamborghini is trying to compete but is behind in the powertrain department. The Evo received the Performante's engine which is 80HP short of both Ferrari and McLaren. To be fair, Lambo is working on something but is under the veil of VAG and somewhat constrained. They are also against turbocharging and evolve a bit slower than their competitors. Powertrain = advatange F8.

Exterior: looks are always subjective and each car has its own beauty. Front End. A virtual tie. The Perf is so aggressive looking. It screams move out of my way. The Ferrari is less angular but has sensuous lines. And that S duct, a win. A tie here. The side view is a also a virtual tie. The front fenders to the back of the door look great on both. I do like the coke bottle effect on the lower side kick panels of the F8. Nice design touch. The rear fender on the Lambo is gorgeous. I love the view of it from the side mirror. The girl has nice hips. You can see the fender bulging out to cover the rear wheel, while the F8's is a bit more flat. The engine intake on the F8 is a nice sight in the side mirror though. A tie here with maybe a slight edge to Lambo. Onto the back end. Both are great! But I give the advantage to Ferrari. It's a fresh design and I like the clean look to it and the quad tail lights paying homage to the 308. The engine compartment. Both marques are very good at engine jewelry. This is where McLaren loses points against the Italians...I digress. Again, I give a slight advantage to the F8 here. The lexan is a nice touch and its a bit better presentation. Lambo is right there. The Perf has a nice looking engine bay but I prefer regular carbon fiber to the type used in the Performante's engine bay.

Interior: both are great in their own way. The Performante is like a fighter cockpit. Nice Alcantara and diamond cut patterns. The switch gear (window switches, lifter, etc.) feels a bit cheap for an otherwise very beautiful interior. The display is also fantastic. I have the comfort sets in mine which I would highly recommend to anyone looking into a Performante. They are suitable for both the track and daily driving and are powered/heated. The F8's interior is just completely different. I appreciate it for what it is. Beautiful Italian leather and a comfortable place to take a long drive. I like the simplicity of the center bridge layout and the switch gear seems of better quality. As I get older, I've come to like getting in and out of a car easier. A virtual tie again...

This all leaves me with a question of where to go. I love my Performante. It's a great car! Zero problems and a fun driving experience. But maybe it's time for something different. I've had 5 Lambos and love the brand. With that said, Ferrari has been on my radar and this is a unique opportunity to order one to my specs. I've never owned a Ferrari. There's no denying the brand has a rich history and a mystique to it. I'm going to give it a try if I can come to terms with my local dealer on price, etc. I always appreciate any advice you owners have and look forward to sharing our experiences. Thanks for reading, you made to the end...
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Your commentary is a comparison of an available car compared to one that does exist. As Jeff Segal- LeMans Winner stated, " I've driven plenty of modern stuff. It's great, incredibly capable. But to me, its not at all about speed. It's about the driving experience." Until it is is actually driven, comparisons of the F8 to anything is purely a hypothethical exercise with little relevance.

SB27 · Jun 13, 2019

IPO1 said: ↑

As long as wife is happy But honestly you won't have anything until Pista in Dec--right move. My gawd I know you're going to love that engine noise.

Good man...HP PD will be looking out for you HAHA!
Click to expand...

Highland Park PD already has me on "watch alert" ever since I installed the GMG center exhaust in my GT3. LOL.

My wife calls the exhaust button on my GT3 the "HP Police Avoidance button".....

Coincid · Jun 13, 2019

Coincid said: ↑

Your commentary is a comparison of an available car compared to one that does not exist. As Jeff Segal- LeMans Winner stated, " I've driven plenty of modern stuff. It's great, incredibly capable. But to me, its not at all about speed. It's about the driving experience." Until it is is actually driven, comparisons of the F8 to anything is purely a hypothethical exercise with little relevance.
Click to expand...

Correction in my post. “ should read does not exist”.

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